How to Start an LLC in Missouri | 2025 Guide

How to Form an LLC in Missouri | 2025

Missouri is home to over 579,040 small businesses, making up 99.5% of all businesses in the state¹. It stands out for its low startup costs, minimal ongoing requirements, and straightforward formation process, making it a smart choice for new and growing businesses.

With such a strong entrepreneurial presence, it’s no surprise that many business owners choose to form a Limited Liability Company (LLC) for its flexibility, liability protection, and tax advantages. This guide walks you through exactly how to form an LLC in Missouri and what to expect along the way.

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How to Start an LLC in Missouri (Step-by-Step)

Step 1: Choose a Unique Business Name

Your LLC's name must be distinguishable from existing entities registered with the Missouri Secretary of State and include "Limited Liability Company," "LLC," or "L.L.C." Conduct a name availability search through the Missouri Business Entity Search² to ensure your desired name is available. Optionally, you can reserve the name for 60 days by filing a Name Reservation form and paying a $25 fee.

Step 2: Appoint a Registered Agent

A registered agent is responsible for receiving legal documents on behalf of your LLC. The agent must have a physical address in Missouri and be available during business hours. You can act as your own agent, appoint a trusted individual, or hire a professional registered agent service.

Step 3: File the Articles of Organization

To officially create your LLC, file the Articles of Organization³ with the Missouri Secretary of State. You can file online for a $50 fee, which offers immediate processing, or by mail for a $105 fee, with processing times of 3-4 weeks. The form requires information such as your LLC's name, principal office address, registered agent's name and address, duration of the LLC, and management structure.

Step 4: Create an Operating Agreement

Missouri doesn’t require LLCs to have an operating agreement, but you should still create one. It defines who owns the business, how decisions are made, how profits are shared, and what happens if a member leaves. A clear operating agreement helps prevent conflicts and keeps your business running smoothly.

Step 5: Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN)

An EIN is required for tax purposes, opening a business bank account, and hiring employees. You can apply for an EIN at no cost through the IRS website⁴⁵.

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What Are the Business Requirements for a Missouri LLC?

Once your LLC is formed, you’ll need to stay compliant with a few key requirements.

• Business Licenses and Permits: Depending on your industry and location, you may need to obtain specific licenses or permits. Check with local city or county governments and the Missouri Department of Revenue⁶ for applicable requirements.
• Tax Registration: If your LLC sells goods or services subject to sales tax, register with the Missouri Department of Revenue to collect and remit sales tax. Additionally, if you have employees, register for employer withholding tax and unemployment insurance.
• Business Bank Account: Opening a separate business bank account is crucial for maintaining personal liability protection. You'll typically need your EIN, Articles of Organization, and Operating Agreement to open an account.

What Are the Benefits of Starting an LLC in Missouri?

Missouri offers several advantages for LLC formation:

• Low Filing Fees: With a $50 online filing fee, Missouri is among the most affordable states for LLC formation.
• No Annual Report Requirement: Unlike many states, Missouri does not require LLCs to file annual reports or pay annual fees, reducing ongoing compliance burdens.
• Tax Flexibility: LLCs in Missouri are typically treated as pass-through entities for tax purposes, meaning profits and losses pass through to members' personal tax returns, avoiding double taxation. Additionally, Missouri's corporate income tax rate is a flat 4%.
• Personal Liability Protection: An LLC structure shields members' personal assets from business debts and liabilities, providing peace of mind for entrepreneurs.

How Much Does It Cost to Start an LLC in Missouri?

Missouri’s low filing fees and lack of annual reporting costs make it one of the more affordable states to start and maintain an LLC.

Can I Open an LLC in Missouri Without Living There?

Yes, nonresidents can form an LLC in Missouri. However, you must appoint a registered agent with a physical address in Missouri to receive legal documents on behalf of your LLC. Additionally, if your LLC conducts business in other states, you may need to register as a foreign LLC in those jurisdictions.

Can a Nonresident Open a Company in Missouri?

Absolutely. Non-U.S. residents can establish an LLC in Missouri. The process mirrors that for residents, with the added step of obtaining an EIN from the IRS, which can be done without a Social Security Number by submitting Form SS-4 via mail or fax. It's advisable to consult with legal and tax professionals to ensure compliance with U.S. laws and regulations.​

Comparison with Other States

If you're considering forming an LLC, it's worth seeing how Missouri stacks up against other states. Key differences in filing fees, taxes, reporting requirements, and privacy laws can affect your long-term costs and obligations.

• Missouri offers a cost-effective option for entrepreneurs, with a low filing fee of $50 and no annual report requirement, making it appealing for small businesses seeking simplicity and affordability.
• Texas is known for its robust economy and business-friendly environment, featuring no state income tax; however, it requires a higher initial filing fee of $300 and imposes a franchise tax on certain businesses.
• Florida provides a favorable tax climate with no state income tax and a moderate filing fee of $125, but it mandates an annual report with a fee of $138.75, which adds to ongoing compliance costs.
• Illinois presents a higher cost structure, with a $150 filing fee and a $75 annual report fee, alongside a state income tax rate of 4.95%, making it a more expensive option for LLC formation compared to the other states.

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Conclusion

With one of the lowest filing fees in the country and no annual report requirement, Missouri stands out as a cost-effective option for business owners. The process is straightforward, and ongoing compliance is minimal compared to other states, making it easier to stay focused on running your business.

Missouri’s central location and strong regional economy make it a strategic choice for businesses that operate across state lines or serve a Midwest customer base. The state supports small businesses through various local incentives, and its straightforward regulatory environment helps reduce the learning curve for new entrepreneurs.

FAQs About Missouri LLCs

Does Missouri Offer Privacy Protections for LLCs?

While Missouri requires LLCs to have a public address, you can protect your home address by using a registered agent service. This keeps your personal address off public records while staying compliant with Missouri’s rules. Additionally, starting in 2024, the Corporate Transparency Act requires filing a Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) report, which is not publicly accessible but is available to law enforcement and certain government agencies.

Why Do People Use Missouri for LLCs?

Missouri is favored for its low filing fees, absence of annual report requirements, and favorable tax treatment. These factors make it an attractive option for entrepreneurs seeking to minimize administrative burdens and costs.

Is Missouri LLC Tax-Free?

No, a Missouri LLC is not entirely tax-free. While the LLC itself may not pay income tax if it's a pass-through entity, members are responsible for paying taxes on their share of the profits. Additionally, Missouri imposes a 4% corporate income tax on LLCs that elect to be taxed as corporations.

What Are the Disadvantages of a Missouri LLC?

The LLC members are typically subject to self-employment taxes on their share of the profits, which can increase the overall tax burden compared to some corporate structures. LLCs cannot issue stock, which may limit their ability to raise capital from outside investors, especially when compared to corporations that can attract funding through equity offerings.

Sources:

1. Small Business Profile: Missouri (2024) | SBA Office of Advocacy
2. Missouri Business Entity Search | Missouri Secretary of State
3. Missouri Articles of Organization – Form LLC-1 (PDF) | Missouri Secretary of State
4. Apply for an EIN | IRS
5. BOI Reporting | Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN)
6. Business Tax Resources | Missouri Department of Revenue